The car used a twin SU carburettor version of the 121 cid (1991 cc) four-cylinder Standard Vanguard engine tuned to increase its output to 90 bhp (67 kW).[2][4] The body was mounted on a substantial separate chassis with coil-sprung independent suspension at the front and a leaf spring live axle at the rear. Either wire or disc wheels could be supplied. The standard transmission was a four-speed manual unit, with overdrive available on top gear as an option. Lockheeddrum brakes were fitted all round.

As of Q1 2011 there were approximately 377 licensed and 52 SORN TR2s registered with the DVLA.[5][6]

Black asked BRM development engineer and test driver Ken Richardson to assess the 20TS, and after he declared it to be a "death trap" a project was undertaken to improve on the design.[7] A year later the TR2 was revealed. It had better looks; a simple ladder-type chassis; a longer body; and a bigger boot. It was loved by American buyers, and became the best earner for Triumph. In 1955 the TR3 came out with more power; a re-designed grille; and a GT package that included a factory hard-top.[4]

A car with overdrive tested by The Motor magazine in 1954 had a top speed of 107.3 mph (172.7 km/h), and could accelerate from 0–60 mph (97 km/h) in 12.0 seconds. A fuel consumption of 34.5 miles per imperial gallon (8.2 L/100 km; 28.7 mpg-US) was recorded. The test car cost £900 including taxes. The overdrive option had added £56 to the total.

The magazine also commented that the TR2 was the lowest price British car able to exceed 100 mph (160 km/h).[2]